When you have time, think back on your entire study abroad experience. The people you met, the places you traveled, the things you did… don’t be afraid to reminisce. Appreciate the fact that you did something very few students get to do, and treasure that experience and the new qualities you possess because of it.

I am Mangesh Nakade, an International PhD student from India. I am proud to be sharing my experiences with you all.
First, I would like to congratulate all of the students here including myself for finally graduating.

How did my story begin…
Every little encounters and experiences gained here in Hungary has been enriching and will remain within my memories for life, such as taking part in different projects, Hungarian language and the rich culture.

Every end has a new beginning. Today might be the last day for some of us as students of different schools, but I believe our learning will start from today. When I left home, 3 years back I wasn't sure what I will get in return. I was excited but at the same time a little scared of the new reality. Hungary was the first country, outside India, that I would be living on my own. I was prepared to learn, explore, make new friends and get to know me as an individual self. Before Hungary, there was always someone to guide me, my teachers in schools, my elders and my mom. But here I was starting a journey where I set the rules and guided myself. It had finally occurred to me that I had to leave my comfort zone and live a new reality. But today as I stand here, I am proud to say that I had made the right decision to come to the heart of central Europe, Hungary.

Life in Hungary has been like coming out of the bed and landing on the couch. Hungary has truly been my second home because I have had some amazing people as friends in this country. The environment and the people of this country are so welcoming and helpful, you don't feel away from home. The good experiences that I got here of course does not imply, that I did not have to face my share of discomfort and challenge, but these challenges has made me a stronger and more confident person today.

Every little encounters and experiences gained here in Hungary has been enriching and will remain within my memories for life, such as taking part in different projects, Hungarian language and the rich culture.

Professional experiences I have gained…
Talking from a graduating student's perspective, I believe the stories created beyond the boundaries of the University have been equally helpful to the graduates. Everyone here has had their own share of excitement and stories that they will carry along their life. As a student of different universities and schools, I have had a very different experience. The teaching style, the lectures, were very different from what I had experienced in my home country, and therefore for the first quarter of my semester, I was still a confused soul. I didn’t really understand the procedure, even though I attended each lecture.

For me the initial challenge was always to locate my next lecture hall. I was late almost every day in the lectures, because no matter how many times I looked into the map, I still couldn't figure out the lecture halls. Sometimes I simply overslept because outside was too dark for me to believe that it was time to wake up. This slowly changed, and I started adjusting to the system here, because I had friends and professors who were eager to help and guide me. For that, I am really grateful.

The best thing about the education system here in Hungary is that they let you choose your own speed, you are not judged by the scores in your grade-sheet. The various current-issue studies, the case works, group works the research projects, the assignments, each were helping me develop skills, which of-course at that time I wasn't ready to accept. The practical approach here in the education system is what makes the schools a world class choice for international students like me. Thank you for improving every day and helping us be in align with the current market condition through your developed policies. All the efforts from the student unions, student tutors, professors, career consultants help make a student feel like home.

International universities provide an opportunity for both national and international students to network, share each other's culture, and make this world a global village. This is a huge opportunity for us students. Let us not just keep the friendship within the case or group assignments but help each other build bilateral trade/business relations with our respective countries. Let us use our differences to the benefit of all.

Finally, congratulations once again and wish us good luck with the future ahead.

Lastly, when you have time, think back on your entire study abroad experience. The people you met, the places you traveled, the things you did… don’t be afraid to reminisce. Appreciate the fact that you did something very few students get to do, and treasure that experience and the new qualities you possess because of it.